Raw Edge Peace Sign Applique Sewing Tutorial
Embellish a shirt or sweatshirt with a patchwork peace sign using this easy raw edge applique sewing tutorial. Perfect sewing pattern for using up those fabric scraps.
Fun raw edge applique sewing tutorial using shapes – peace sign, heart, and smiley face. I loved creating the tutorial for the “LOVE” patchwork letters, I decided to do the same style of applique using fun shapes!
I have included large and small templates for each peace sign, heart, and smiley face shapes – large 6″W, small 5″W, and the heights vary. You can use the shape of your choice. For this tutorial, I will be using the large peace sign template on a shirt. This raw edge applique will work on sweatshirts as well.
Raw patchwork applique is perfect for using up fabric scraps. Try these other sewing tutorials using fabric scraps!
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***You can find the AD-FREE, printable PDF version of this sewing tutorial available for purchase in my Etsy shop HERE. Includes 16 pages of step-by-step instructions with pictures. Print a copy to keep next to your sewing machine for easy reference.***
Peace sign applique supplies needed:
- Quilting cotton fabric scraps – my favorite fabric shop
- Peace sign, hear, or smiley face template (see below download)
- T-shirt or sweatshirt (with a plain front)
- Cotton batting
- Erasable pen
- Sewing scissors
- Sewing machine
Download and print the template
Print the peace sign template, or template of your choice. Be sure your printer is set to “actual size.”
Cut out the peace sign along the outside of the black lines using your paper scissors.
Place the peace sign shape onto the front of your shirt or sweatshirt for size and placement purposes.
Trace the peace sign onto batting
You’ll need a piece of cotton batting big enough to fit the shape plus at least 1/4-inch extra.
Place the peace sign onto the batting (I used tape on the back to hold in place – optional) and trace around the shape using an erasable pen.
Cut out the peace sign using your sewing scissors, leaving about 1/4-inch around the edge. Remember to cut out the middle as well.
Stitch over the lines
Using a straight stitch, sew over the lines you just made, including the lines in the middle. These stitches will serve as an outline when attaching the fabric. Take your time – the batting can shift easily.
***You can find the AD-FREE, printable PDF version of this sewing tutorial available for purchase in my Etsy shop HERE. Includes 16 pages of step-by-step instructions with pictures. Print a copy to keep next to your sewing machine for easy reference.***
Add the fabric scraps
It’s time to add the fabric scraps! To keep it simple, I’m using strips of fabric to be sure all the outline stitching is covered. The holes will be cut out after all the fabric strips are attached. You’ll want to be sure no raw edges are visible in the middle of the peace sign.
Place your first scrap of fabric right side up at the top of your batting peace sign, covering the stitching outline. You can get creative by placing the strips of fabric vertical or diagonal on the peace sign.
Take your second fabric scrap and place it right side down on top of the first fabric piece.
Sew along the bottom edge using 1/4″ seam allowance. Open up and finger press it down or use your iron. I finger pressed and then used my iron once all fabric pieces were attached.
Now, place a third scrap fabric piece face down on top of the second piece.
Sew along the bottom using a 1/4″ seam allowance. Finger press the fabric.
Continue with the placement of the fabric scraps until you have the whole peace sign covered. Press the seams.
The above picture shows all the fabric attached to the peace sign batting.
Trim the excess fabric around the outside of the peace sign.
Sew over the peace sign outline
Now you are going to sew over the outline you stitched previously.
Place the peace sign on your sewing machine, fabric side down, and straight stitch over the previous outline stitching. Remember the stitching in the middle. Again, take your time.
Once you are finished sewing the outline, trim around the peace sign as close as you can without cutting through the stitches. I found it easier to use my 5-inch sewing scissors for this task.
Attach the peace sign to your shirt
It’s time to attach your scrappy peace sign to your shirt or sweatshirt!
Smooth your shirt as best you can. Place the peace sign on your shirt in your desired spot. I just eyeballed the center. If you want to find the exact center of the shirt, fold the shirt in half lengthwise and place a pin at the fold.
Once you have the peace sign where you like it, pin it to your shirt.
Sew around the peace sign using a small zigzag stitch. I set my machine for a 2.0 length and 1.5 width. Remember to zigzag the middle.
Pin for later!
***You can find the AD-FREE, printable PDF version of this sewing tutorial available for purchase in my Etsy shop HERE. Includes 16 pages of step-by-step instructions with pictures. Print a copy to keep next to your sewing machine for easy reference.***
You are finished!
I hope you enjoyed this sewing tutorial for raw edge patchwork applique. Now that you know how, these shirts make the perfect gifts! Peace and happy sewing!
Other tutorials using fabric scraps:
- Simple Scrap Fabric Bookmark – no sewing required
- Fabric Journal Bookmark Pen Holder
- Metal Frame Coin Purse Tutorial
- Pillow Cover Pattern Using Fabric Scraps